The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word INFER
I've seen this crossword clue in The Sunday Telegraph
I
N
F
E
R
More clues leading to the result INFER
- Deduce number will have escaped fire
- Deduce number will escape fire
- Gather popular judge retired
- Figure out number leaving hell
- Work out where area of fear is
- Deduce no escaping from fire
- Reason fire’s not turned on
- Deduce knight consumed by raging fire
- Conclude there’s no escaping from fire
- Deduce speaker’s wearing ermine, for example?
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Make a deduction" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case make a deduction = infer.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does INFER mean?
INFER verb- To introduce (something) as a reasoned conclusion; to conclude by reasoning or deduction, as from premises or evidence.
- To lead to (something) as a consequence; to imply. (Now often considered incorrect, especially with a person as subject.)
- To cause, inflict (something) upon or to someone.
- To introduce (a subject) in speaking, writing etc.; to bring in.